James Cochran to leave The Brave months after its opening
James Cochran announces new residency at Kitchen No.8
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James Cochran has is set for a new residency, a day after he announced the departure from The Brave.
BOXHALL City has unveiled James Cochran and Ms Joyce K as the first chefs-in-residence at Kitchen No. 8, a new rotating chef-led concept designed to bring fresh and evolving culinary experiences to the city.
Ms Joyce K, known for her innovative Congolese-inspired cuisine and appearance on Five Star Chef: Britain’s Next Great Chef, will launch Kitchen No. 8 when BOXHALL City opens on April 10.
Later in the year, James will take over with his signature British-Caribbean fusion from former restaurant 12:51 which closed in September 2024.
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Read more: James Cochran to leave The Brave months after its opening
Kitchen No. 8 will host a changing roster of top chefs throughout the year, complementing the diverse food lineup at BOXHALL City.
The venue will feature 13 restaurants, including Sourdough Sophia, Club Mexicana, Farzi, and Little Bao Boy.
Housed in the restored Metropolitan Arcade near Liverpool Street station, BOXHALL City will also offer a curated wine and cocktail selection, with a rooftop bar set to open later in the year. The food-first destination officially opens on 10 April.
Matt Snell, CEO of BOXPARK, said, “Announcing the first two chefs that will take residence at our Kitchen No. 8 concept in BOXHALL City marks a huge milestone for us. From day one, our goal for BOXHALL City has been to collaborate with some of the world’s most exceptional culinary talents, and with James Cochran and Ms Joyce K on board, we’re one step closer to making that vision a reality.
“Their involvement sets a high standard for the chefs-in-residence we’ll continue to welcome throughout the year, firmly establishing BOXHALL City as a standout addition to London’s vibrant food scene.”
James Cochran added, “Throughout my career, I’ve championed bold flavours, diverse cuisines and, above all, creativity in cooking. This opportunity at Kitchen No. 8 in BOXHALL City will allow me to really get into a creative groove and test new dishes in such a beautiful and food-focused space, surrounded by a mix of global cuisines.
"Having worked in professional kitchens for nearly two decades, from the iconic Wheeler’s Oyster Bar as a teenager to my time in Michelin-starred kitchens, I’m delighted my journey as a chef has now led me in the direction of pursuing my own creative style and innovation. I can’t wait to get into the kitchen at BOXHALL City and start cooking up something exciting for the capital.”
Ms Joyce K said: “Bringing my Congolese-inspired dishes to Kitchen No. 8 at BOXHALL City is an incredible opportunity to share my style of cooking with a wider audience. Being the first chef to launch this innovative space, alongside talent like James Cochran, is a true honour.
“I’m thrilled to be part of a destination dedicated to showcasing exceptional dining in London and to collaborate with the BOXPARK team to bring my dishes to life in such a vibrant setting.”
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